Motivation Behind the Candidacy

In a recent interview with FOX 5’s Rosanna Scotto, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo articulated his reasons for entering the race for Mayor of New York City. Addressing reporters from a senior center in the Bronx, he emphasized his lifelong connection to the city and his concern over its current challenges. “I’m a lifelong New Yorker… and New York City is in trouble. New York City is in crisis,” Cuomo stated.

Key Issues Addressed

Cuomo’s campaign focuses on several pressing matters affecting residents:

• Crime Rates: Cuomo pointed out the need for immediate changes in public safety as people express feelings of insecurity while walking the streets.
• Affordability Crisis: He mentioned the critical state of housing and living expenses impacting New Yorkers.
• COVID-19 Impact: The former governor reflected on the city’s struggle with the epidemic and its lingering effects on public health and safety.

Political Landscape and Immigration Policies

In light of the ongoing discussions regarding immigration, Cuomo commented on the federal approach to illegal immigration and its impact on New York City. He expressed discontent with the Trump administration’s methods, particularly regarding enforcement tactics that might involve overstepping local governance. “If they focus on criminals, we do not harbor criminals in New York,” he remarked, advocating for the deportation of individuals who commit crimes while expressing his concerns over potential raids in sensitive locations like churches and hospitals.

Addressing Past Controversies

Despite launching his campaign, Cuomo acknowledges the contentious issues from his tenure as governor, particularly relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although he admitted to experiencing some mistakes, he did not delve deeply into the controversies surrounding his administration’s handling of nursing homes during the pandemic, which have drawn significant criticism in recent years.

Responses to Criticism and Apologies

During the interview, Scotto raised the ongoing grief experienced by families affected by nursing home policies during the pandemic, prompting Cuomo to address these sentiments. He expressed sorrow for the distress families had to endure, stating, “I’m sorry for what they had to go through.” He added that while health experts deemed the regulations appropriate at the time, the emotional fallout for families has been monumental.